Welcome to the first issue of the ITF’s new flagship publication, Transport International.

In the past our journal was the chief – and often the only – means of communication to all our affiliated unions. Now, however, Transport International is part of a much broader ITF communication strategy which includes the internet, the international and national press and broadcasting media as well as our own growing array of sectional and specialist publications.

Each component in the strategy has its particular role. Transport International will have two principal functions: to keep affiliates informed about key developments within the ITF and also to examine topical issues of relevance to transport workers.

We hope to do this in a way that will not just interest those in the transport sector directly involved but also those in other transport industries too.

The fact is that as the global economy becomes more integrated, the more transport workers share the same concerns irrespective of industry, continent or country of origin. Look at how privatisation is affecting the rail and docks industries worldwide; how some of the practices of the flag of convenience system in shipping are being copied in civil aviation; or how hours of work and fatigue are growing problems for road transport workers as well as seafarers.

News stories which previously would have appeared in ITF News will now be posted on the ITF’s website and be available through the ITF News On Line service (see here). This will ensure the instant dissemination of breaking news and appeals for solidarity – which we could never do properly before the creation of the internet.

Meanwhile Transport International will be free to tackle issues in depth, again something we have not been able to do properly until now.